Biodiversity
Supporting biodiversity and sustainability lies at the heart of what we do.
We are dedicated to creating habitats for all kinds of species on site. Just a few examples include our hives for bees and we are in the process of creating bee banks for solitary bees. We deliberately leave areas of stinging nettles as habitat for insects, and we have numerous ancient hedgerows which are amazing habitats for birds, small mammals and insects.
We work closely with Julie Riley, a very experienced ecologist, who has produced a detailed 30-year management plan for Cow Close Farm.
Explore the farm
We have a map to invite guests to explore our land and will have ‘spotter guides’ for birds and other wildlife.
There are 15 or so fruit trees (apples, pears, cherries and plums) which guests are encouraged to pick and eat from. Additionally, an allotment area, run by a local couple, grows vegetables which will be provided to guests when in season.
Energy & water
On a sunny day, the solar panels on the roof of the Farmhouse at Cow Close Farm not only fully power the site, including the electric car charging point (free for guests to use) but also sends energy back to the grid.
When the weather is less favourable, electricity is supplied by Octopus Energy and is 100% from renewables.
Various measures are taken to save water, such as the water butt which collects rain water from our greenhouse, which is then used to water the plants in our gardens.
Reducing waste
Guests are encouraged to recycle cardboard, paper, glass and plastic and are given information in their Welcome Pack to support them doing so. Garden waste and grass cuttings are composted where possible.
During the refurbishment of Cow Close Farm, any unwanted furniture was donated to The Salvation Army charity shop in Chesterfield and waste was taken to the Recycling Centre to be sorted by material so that as much as possible could be recycled.
The refurbishment prioritised sustainability, for instance the reclaimed wood worktops, handmade by co-founder, Matt and beautiful bathroom units also made from reclaimed wood or upcycled items from Simply Bathroom Furniture.
Ethical suppliers
We prioritise ethical and sustainable suppliers in order to support fair labour practices, provide equal opportunities, and contribute positively to local communities. The suppliers we work with adhere to environmentally responsible practices, avoiding harm to wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems.
For instance, our coffee is from Chimney Fire Coffee, our tea is sourced from Clipper and toilet paper is from Who Gives A Crap, all ‘B Corporations’ verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.
By sourcing locally when we can, we minimise our carbon footprint, reduce transportation emissions, and strengthen the local economy.
